Robert Leigh Harrison

Robert Leigh Harrison passed away on June 23, 2023. Bob was born to Leigh Nephi Harrison and Afton Beckstead Harrison in Malad City, Idaho. He was the oldest of three sons, and his brothers are Jack and Allen. He enjoyed life on the family farm as a child and continued farming well into retirement.

Bob graduated from Malad High School where he excelled in basketball, baseball, and track. He attended Albion State Normal School and then Idaho State College for a year before joining the Navy. Upon return from the Navy, he attended Utah State University, where he graduated with a degree in agronomy. While attending college he married Kay Tovey and had four children: Jeanette, Dan, Steve, and Jackie. They later divorced.

Bob worked for the Idaho State Transportation Department for 35 years. He was an avid outdoorsman that enjoyed hunting and fishing. Bob also had a passion for rodeo.

He married Marjory Cecile Hughes on February 29, 1992 (leap year), and only had to buy an anniversary gift every four years. Together they enjoyed years of successful horse racing. Bob’s longtime trainer and friend Heath Hillman was also by his side for 30 years, and they most recently won races in New Mexico, California, and the Governor’s Cup in Wyoming.

Bob always said, “Stay happy”, so now we are saying “Happy trails to you. We love you!”

A graveside service will be held on Wednesday, October 23, 2024 at 11:30 am at the Malad City Cemetery, Malad, Idaho. 

Memories and condolences may be shared with the family using the guestbook below.